We are pleased to offer an exciting treasure filled 7 day tour
of Istanbul and Edirne exploring the Islamic heritage of the
European side of Turkey
of Istanbul and Edirne exploring the Islamic heritage of the
European side of Turkey
This fascinating region has passed hands over the years from The Greeks, to
The Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, and finally the Ottoman Turks, each
leaving their legacy and influence on the history, traditions, and landscape. We
discover the European side beginning with Istanbul and exploring Edirne on the
Greek border which was once the capital of Ottoman Turkey
See also Ancient Aegean Turkey in 'Custom Tours' or Istanbul in 'City
Tours' for more pictures or itinerary of the tour below.
The Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, and finally the Ottoman Turks, each
leaving their legacy and influence on the history, traditions, and landscape. We
discover the European side beginning with Istanbul and exploring Edirne on the
Greek border which was once the capital of Ottoman Turkey
See also Ancient Aegean Turkey in 'Custom Tours' or Istanbul in 'City
Tours' for more pictures or itinerary of the tour below.
Our tour consists of a small intimate group of 6-12 people maximum leaving from Toronto with
mix of relaxed backpack style and guided tours with daily walking and local buses.
You will be led by an experienced leader with local knowledge for each day of your trip starting
from and returning to Canada.
mix of relaxed backpack style and guided tours with daily walking and local buses.
You will be led by an experienced leader with local knowledge for each day of your trip starting
from and returning to Canada.
We will have time to explore all of the relevant historical and cultural landmarks as well as having
ample free time to wonder on your own and explore your own interests.
Accommodation will be Superior Budget Istanbul Hotel in central prime
location with a choice of shared or private rooms.
Daily Breakfast included. Entry Visa not included.
ample free time to wonder on your own and explore your own interests.
Accommodation will be Superior Budget Istanbul Hotel in central prime
location with a choice of shared or private rooms.
Daily Breakfast included. Entry Visa not included.
Day 1
Evening departure Toronto
Evening departure Toronto
Day 2
Morning arrival Istanbul. Transfer to Hotel
with time to rest for the afternoon. Evening
walking tour of Istanbul landmarks by night
Morning arrival Istanbul. Transfer to Hotel
with time to rest for the afternoon. Evening
walking tour of Istanbul landmarks by night
Day 4 (Breakfast)
We pass thru the historic Bazaar District to the famous Grand Bazaar
gateway to the Silk Road to China with a multitude of hand crafted items.
You will truly run out of money before you run out of things to buy. Then we
continue to the Suleymaniye Mosque, the imposing landmark of Istanbul
which also houses the tombs of the Sultan Suleyman and his famous wife
Roxelana. We pass the Roman Aqueduct to the Spice Bazaar and New
Mosque and cross the Gelata Bridge to the European style Beyoglu district.
After travelling on the Victorian underground Tunel Train we stroll thru many
designer stores of the pedestrianized shopping district Istiklal Caddesi
terminating at Taksim Square. Before ending for the day you have the
option of visiting a genuine historic Turkish Hammam bath house.
We pass thru the historic Bazaar District to the famous Grand Bazaar
gateway to the Silk Road to China with a multitude of hand crafted items.
You will truly run out of money before you run out of things to buy. Then we
continue to the Suleymaniye Mosque, the imposing landmark of Istanbul
which also houses the tombs of the Sultan Suleyman and his famous wife
Roxelana. We pass the Roman Aqueduct to the Spice Bazaar and New
Mosque and cross the Gelata Bridge to the European style Beyoglu district.
After travelling on the Victorian underground Tunel Train we stroll thru many
designer stores of the pedestrianized shopping district Istiklal Caddesi
terminating at Taksim Square. Before ending for the day you have the
option of visiting a genuine historic Turkish Hammam bath house.
Day 5 (Breakfast)
We begin our tour Imperial Istanbul by a visit to the majestic Dolmabahce
Palace the grand Imperial Palace of the Sultan. Here we marvel at the intricate
workmanship and lavish opulence of the furnishings. We take the Sultans Boat
across the waters to the Baylerbeyi Palace on the opposite banks of the
Bosphorus. We then take a water cruise down the Bosphorus Straits to
admire the riverfront villas as we pass under the grand Bosphorus Bridge. We
see the Fortress of Europe a riverside fortress built to defend the straits from
invaders, and also pass Leanders Tower a lighthouse set on its own island.
You may chose to complete your tour by ascending Gelati Tower for a 360
birds eye view of the city skyline. The remaining freetime is yours to enjoy
We begin our tour Imperial Istanbul by a visit to the majestic Dolmabahce
Palace the grand Imperial Palace of the Sultan. Here we marvel at the intricate
workmanship and lavish opulence of the furnishings. We take the Sultans Boat
across the waters to the Baylerbeyi Palace on the opposite banks of the
Bosphorus. We then take a water cruise down the Bosphorus Straits to
admire the riverfront villas as we pass under the grand Bosphorus Bridge. We
see the Fortress of Europe a riverside fortress built to defend the straits from
invaders, and also pass Leanders Tower a lighthouse set on its own island.
You may chose to complete your tour by ascending Gelati Tower for a 360
birds eye view of the city skyline. The remaining freetime is yours to enjoy
Day 6 (Breakfast)
We begin with a two hour bus drive to the historic town of Edirne on the
Turkish Border with Greece and Bulgaria. This was once the Roman
City of Adrianople and was later the early Ottoman Capital before the
capture of Constantinople. The crowning glory of Edirne is the mighty
Selimiye Mosque designed by the impressive Sinan responsible for many
of Turkeys majestic mosques. We also see the Mosque of the Three
Balconies and time to explore the Rustem Pasa Caravanserai bazaar.
After lunch we pass by the Old Mosque before heading to the Beyazit II
Mosque now home to a Museum of Islamic Medicine. We return by bus
to Istanbul.
We begin with a two hour bus drive to the historic town of Edirne on the
Turkish Border with Greece and Bulgaria. This was once the Roman
City of Adrianople and was later the early Ottoman Capital before the
capture of Constantinople. The crowning glory of Edirne is the mighty
Selimiye Mosque designed by the impressive Sinan responsible for many
of Turkeys majestic mosques. We also see the Mosque of the Three
Balconies and time to explore the Rustem Pasa Caravanserai bazaar.
After lunch we pass by the Old Mosque before heading to the Beyazit II
Mosque now home to a Museum of Islamic Medicine. We return by bus
to Istanbul.
Day 7 (Breakfast)
Free day Istanbul
Visit the Archeological Museum home to Greek
and Roman treasures, or wander thru the bazaars
bargaining for exquisite hand made crafts. Spend a
day at MiniTurk and experience all of Turkey in
one go.
Free day Istanbul
Visit the Archeological Museum home to Greek
and Roman treasures, or wander thru the bazaars
bargaining for exquisite hand made crafts. Spend a
day at MiniTurk and experience all of Turkey in
one go.
Day 8
Return Toronto.
Return Toronto.
Day 3 (Breakfast)
We begin our tour of the Historic Sultanhamet district of Istanbul by
passing thru the Arasta Bazaar to the famous Blue Mosque. Have time to
explore the interior and admire the craftsmanship of this landmark. We then
pass thru what remains of the ancient Hippodrome, once a grand arena
host to a myriad of events. The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art
displays the artistic treasures from the past. Explore Yerebatan Saray the
underground Byzantine labyrinth. The grand Haga Sophia is best
preserved landmark from historic Constantinople. The once Byzantine
Church was converted to a Mosque and is now a museum. After lunch we
then explore the splendour of Topkapi Palace, Royal Palace of the
Ottomans, with time to visit The Treasury and private apartments of The
Harem. Later visit some of the local carpet merchants to discover vast
array of quality and styles available and you may even bargain for a good
rug that takes your fancy. This evening is an optional excursion to see a
performance of the hypnotic Dervish dance ritual to Sufi music.
We begin our tour of the Historic Sultanhamet district of Istanbul by
passing thru the Arasta Bazaar to the famous Blue Mosque. Have time to
explore the interior and admire the craftsmanship of this landmark. We then
pass thru what remains of the ancient Hippodrome, once a grand arena
host to a myriad of events. The Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art
displays the artistic treasures from the past. Explore Yerebatan Saray the
underground Byzantine labyrinth. The grand Haga Sophia is best
preserved landmark from historic Constantinople. The once Byzantine
Church was converted to a Mosque and is now a museum. After lunch we
then explore the splendour of Topkapi Palace, Royal Palace of the
Ottomans, with time to visit The Treasury and private apartments of The
Harem. Later visit some of the local carpet merchants to discover vast
array of quality and styles available and you may even bargain for a good
rug that takes your fancy. This evening is an optional excursion to see a
performance of the hypnotic Dervish dance ritual to Sufi music.
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brought to you by ImagineHolidays.ca
These tours involve daily walking and are not intended for children or seniors
Some steep walking and stair climbing involved
This is not a religious pilgrimage but a cultural historical tour open to anybody
Some steep walking and stair climbing involved
This is not a religious pilgrimage but a cultural historical tour open to anybody
- Apr/May 2010
- Sept/Oct 2010
One Week Tour of Istanbul and Edirne on the Greek Border
Included
- return air from Toronto direct flight on Turkish Airlines Economy Class
(member of Star Alliance so you earn Air Canada Aeroplan Miles)
- airport pickup and dropoff
- escorted daily sightseeing
- six nites accomodation in air conditioned 3 star hotel next to the blue mosque, single and double
rooms, private ensuite, cable tv, minibar
- daily breakfast
Entry Visa payable at Istanbul Airport Extra
Daily Meals Extra
Istanbul Sightseeing includes (entrance fees extra)
- Sultanhamet district
- Arasta Bazaar
- Blue Mosque
- Haga Sophia
- Basilica Cistern
- Museum of Islamic Art
- Hippodrome
- Topkapi Palace
- Grand Bazaar
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Roman Aqueduct
- Spice Bazaar
- Gelata Bridge
- Tunel Train
- Istiklal Caddesi
- Taksim Square
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Bosphorus boat cruise
- Gelata Tower
Optional Extras
- Dervish Dance
- Carpet Shopping
- Turkish Baths
Edirne was the Ottoman Capital from 1361-1453 until the capture of Constantinople (Istanbul) and also
dates back to Emperor Hadrian in Roman Times from AD125. The layout of the town centre is typical
of a Turkish Silk Road trading town
Day trip to Edirne on the Greece border includes (bus fare and entrance fees extra)
- Selimiye Mosque
- Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
- Old Mosque
- Mosque of three balconies
- Rustem Pasa Caravenserai
- Beyezit II Mosque Museum of Islamic Medicine
Daily freetime included
Also, one whole free day after the tour to continue to explore more on your own
Group size : Min 5 - Max 10
Be sure to tell your friends about this exciting travel opportunity
PRICING - $1899 Based on Double Occupancy
including return air Toronto to Istanbul on Turkish Airlines in Economy class
airport pickup and dropoff, six nights accomodation in 3* hotel
all taxes
Deluxe Insurance Package $60 Extra
Single Supplement $250
Land only Portion $699 for Double Occupancy or $899 Single Occupancy
EARLY BOOKING SAVINGS
BOOK BEFORE VALENTINES DAY AND SAVE $50 ON THE AIR/LAND PACKAGE
IF TWO OR MORE PEOPLE BOOK TOGETHER THEY EACH SAVE ANOTHER $50
(land only portion not eligible for discounts)
So if you book together with a friend before Valentines Day you each pay $1799!
$200 non refundable deposit required at time of booking
Balance due by April 1
Registration Deadline - March 1, 2010
All prices in Canadian Dollars
All Travel Arrangements by
Included
- return air from Toronto direct flight on Turkish Airlines Economy Class
(member of Star Alliance so you earn Air Canada Aeroplan Miles)
- airport pickup and dropoff
- escorted daily sightseeing
- six nites accomodation in air conditioned 3 star hotel next to the blue mosque, single and double
rooms, private ensuite, cable tv, minibar
- daily breakfast
Entry Visa payable at Istanbul Airport Extra
Daily Meals Extra
Istanbul Sightseeing includes (entrance fees extra)
- Sultanhamet district
- Arasta Bazaar
- Blue Mosque
- Haga Sophia
- Basilica Cistern
- Museum of Islamic Art
- Hippodrome
- Topkapi Palace
- Grand Bazaar
- Suleymaniye Mosque
- Roman Aqueduct
- Spice Bazaar
- Gelata Bridge
- Tunel Train
- Istiklal Caddesi
- Taksim Square
- Dolmabahce Palace
- Bosphorus boat cruise
- Gelata Tower
Optional Extras
- Dervish Dance
- Carpet Shopping
- Turkish Baths
Edirne was the Ottoman Capital from 1361-1453 until the capture of Constantinople (Istanbul) and also
dates back to Emperor Hadrian in Roman Times from AD125. The layout of the town centre is typical
of a Turkish Silk Road trading town
Day trip to Edirne on the Greece border includes (bus fare and entrance fees extra)
- Selimiye Mosque
- Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
- Old Mosque
- Mosque of three balconies
- Rustem Pasa Caravenserai
- Beyezit II Mosque Museum of Islamic Medicine
Daily freetime included
Also, one whole free day after the tour to continue to explore more on your own
Group size : Min 5 - Max 10
Be sure to tell your friends about this exciting travel opportunity
PRICING - $1899 Based on Double Occupancy
including return air Toronto to Istanbul on Turkish Airlines in Economy class
airport pickup and dropoff, six nights accomodation in 3* hotel
all taxes
Deluxe Insurance Package $60 Extra
Single Supplement $250
Land only Portion $699 for Double Occupancy or $899 Single Occupancy
EARLY BOOKING SAVINGS
BOOK BEFORE VALENTINES DAY AND SAVE $50 ON THE AIR/LAND PACKAGE
IF TWO OR MORE PEOPLE BOOK TOGETHER THEY EACH SAVE ANOTHER $50
(land only portion not eligible for discounts)
So if you book together with a friend before Valentines Day you each pay $1799!
$200 non refundable deposit required at time of booking
Balance due by April 1
Registration Deadline - March 1, 2010
All prices in Canadian Dollars
All Travel Arrangements by